Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad

Bright, fresh, and bursting with flavor, this Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad is the perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, looking for a light lunch, or wanting to complement a hearty dinner, this salad provides a refreshing balance with its crisp vegetables and creamy avocado. It’s not only easy to make but also packed with nutrients, making it a delicious addition to your meal planning. Enjoy this vibrant salad on its own or as a side dish to elevate your dining experience!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound Roma tomatoes 🍅
• 1 English cucumber 🥒
• ½ medium red onion 🧅
• 2 ripe avocados 🥑
• ⅓ cup olive oil 🫒
• 2 tablespoons champagne or white balsamic vinegar 🥂
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice 🍋
• ½ teaspoon dried basil 🌿
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced 🧄
• ½ teaspoon salt 🧂
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper 🧂
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped 🌱
  • Note: Parsley can be substituted for cilantro if preferred.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Vegetables:
   • Chop the Roma tomatoes, English cucumber, red onion, and avocados into bite-sized pieces. Place them in a large salad bowl, allowing their colors to mingle and create a beautiful display.
2. Make the Dressing:
   • In a lidded jar, combine the olive oil, champagne or white balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, dried basil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Screw on the lid and shake vigorously until all the ingredients are well blended. This dressing will add a delightful zing to the salad.
3. Combine and Toss:
   • Pour the dressing over the chopped vegetables in the salad bowl. Gently toss everything together to ensure the veggies are well coated with the dressing.
4. Garnish:
   • Sprinkle the chopped cilantro over the salad. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed. Toss again to incorporate the cilantro.
5. Serve:
   • Serve the salad immediately for the freshest taste. Enjoy it on its own or alongside your favorite protein for a well-rounded meal.

Cooking Tips:

• Ripeness Matters: Ensure your avocados are ripe for the best flavor and creaminess. They should yield slightly to gentle pressure when squeezed.
• Chill for Flavor: For an even more refreshing experience, refrigerate the salad for about 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
• Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers, radishes, or corn for added color and crunch.

Nutritional Benefits:

• Rich in Nutrients: This salad is loaded with vitamins A and C from the tomatoes and cucumbers, along with healthy fats from the avocados, promoting heart health and skin vitality.
• Hydrating Ingredients: With a high water content, cucumbers and tomatoes help keep you hydrated, especially during warmer months.
• Antioxidant Properties: Ingredients like garlic and olive oil provide antioxidants, which may help combat inflammation and support overall health.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

This Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad is not only visually stunning but also bursting with flavors and textures. The crispness of the vegetables paired with the creaminess of the avocados creates a satisfying contrast, while the zesty dressing ties everything together perfectly. It’s a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit your taste preferences, making it a must-try!

Dietary Information:

• Vegan: This salad is completely plant-based, making it suitable for vegans and those following a plant-based diet.
• Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free, this salad is safe for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
• Nut-Free: This recipe does not include nuts, making it an excellent choice for those with nut allergies.

Why This Recipe Works:

The combination of fresh, quality ingredients allows the natural flavors to shine through. The creamy texture of the avocados complements the crispness of the cucumber and the juicy sweetness of the tomatoes. The vinaigrette adds a refreshing acidity, enhancing the overall taste and bringing the ingredients together in perfect harmony. This salad is not only simple to prepare but also offers endless possibilities for customization.

Conclusion:

The Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad is a delightful addition to any meal, bringing together fresh ingredients and a bright dressing that will invigorate your palate. Its simplicity and versatility make it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Enjoy this nutritious and flavorful salad as part of your meal prep or as a centerpiece at your next gathering. Dive into this vibrant dish, and savor the goodness of fresh produce in every bite!